Kalamazoo man faces charges for heroin possession after a traffic stop

February 20, 2014 (Press-News.org) Kalamazoo man faces charges for heroin possession after a traffic stop

Many criminal investigations evolve from traffic stops. That was the case, for example, when local police arrested a Kalamazoo suspect during a routine traffic detention. The man was allegedly hiding heroin inside his shoe and body.

In late January 2014, an officer from the Kalamazoo Valley Enforcement Team stopped the suspect on the road. The man allegedly consented to a search of his vehicle and pursuant to the investigation, officers claim to have found heroin hidden in the man's shoe. The suspect was also allegedly hiding 10 grams of heroin inside his body.

After authorities arrested the motorist, investigators secured a search warrant for the man's home. Officers ultimately uncovered 85 grams of heroin inside the suspect's clothing and a firearm under the mattress of his bed.

The man is now facing federal charges for "possession with intent to distribute heroin" and "possession of a firearm by a felon." A preliminary hearing has been scheduled for the U.S. District Court in Grand Rapids.

Heroin charges in Michigan

The penalties for drug crimes can be very severe in Michigan. The above-mentioned suspect is facing allegations for heroin possession. Heroin is considered a Schedule 1 drug. This classification of drugs refers to substances that are severely addictive, harmful or abused.

In Michigan, heroin possession is considered a felony. The specific punishment associated with a crime depends on the particular case; however, the court considers the amount of heroin uncovered at a scene, too.

For example, those discovered with less than 50 grams of the drug face up to $25,000 in fines and up to four years behind bars. Those carrying 50 grams to 449 grams of heroin can be fined up to $250,000 and receive two decades in prison. Moreover, those convicted with 450 grams to 999 grams of heroin could be ordered to pay $500,000 and do 30 years in prison. Finally, if one is caught with more than 1,000 grams of heroin, he or she could be ordered to pay $1,000,000 and experience a life sentence behind bars.

In addition to the amount of heroin possessed by the defendant, the court considers other factors in sentencing, including the offender's criminal history and the circumstances of the specific crime. Nevertheless, the court is not forgiving when it comes to drug crimes. For this reason, if you face charges for heroin possession or other drug offenses, you should consider legal assistance.

Article provided by David G. Moore, Attorney at Law
Visit us at www.dgmoorelaw.com